Could UTM Data Sharing Be The Key To Routine BVLOS In The UK?

As more drones fly beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), the systems that manage them need to talk to each other and to air traffic control. The CAA has now set out how it thinks that should work, and it wants your views.

A data-first approach to UTM

UTM, or UAS traffic management, is the set of digital services that helps drones plan and fly safely alongside other aircraft. Rather than picking one central system or provider, the CAA proposes defining what information must be shared and how.

The plan has two main building blocks:

• A Discovery and Synchronisation Service (DSS), which lets UTM service providers share flight plans and coordinate directly with each other. The CAA's preferred option aligns with the international ASTM F3548-21 standard.
• A Common Information Service Provider (CISP), which would give UTM providers the live air traffic data they need, such as radar information on crewed aircraft and airspace restrictions.

What UTM data sharing means for operators

For inspection, survey and utilities teams, this is a key step towards routine BVLOS. Shared, reliable data should make it easier to fly safely alongside other airspace users without bespoke arrangements for every job. The exact data each operation needs would still be set through its approval, such as a SORA authorisation. Coptrz helps enterprise teams build BVLOS-ready drone programmes and can help you plan for what's coming.

Is this the same as the SWIM consultation?

No. The CAA is running a separate consultation on SWIM (System Wide Information Management), the wider framework for sharing information securely across all of aviation. This one focuses specifically on drone traffic. The two are linked, as the CAA proposes that some UTM data is shared in a SWIM-compliant way. Read our SWIM consultation post for more on that.

How to respond

The consultation opened on 6th October 2026 and closes on 30th November 2026. The full proposals are in CAP3314 on the CAA's consultation site.

FAQs

What is UTM?

UTM stands for UAS traffic management, the digital services that help drones operate safely alongside other aircraft.

Is the CISP and DSS consultation the same as the SWIM consultation?

No. SWIM covers information sharing across all of aviation, while this consultation focuses on data sharing for drone traffic.

When does the CAA consultation close?

It closes on 30th November 2026.

Final thoughts

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